Forest, sugarbush beetles topic of upcoming workshop

Massena, NY --A three-day workshop is set for Aug. 24-26 for forest and sugarbush owners to learn more about invasive beetles.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust will offer the free workshop at the Quality Inn, Massena.

The focus of classroom and field surveys during the workshop will be on two invasive tree pests that threaten New York state — the Emerald Ash Borer and the Asian Longhorned Beetle.

“I encourage forest owners, sugarbush operators, local public works officials, grounds department personnel and any others concerned about the health of woodlands or community forests to register for this special free training,” says Cornell Cooperative Extension Senior Educator Steve VanderMark.

“With the threat of these insects spreading into our area; this special training will teach stakeholders specific details about these pests, their recognition, and how to check trees in the St. Lawrence County area for them. With more people trained to watch for these pests, it is hoped any infestations can be spotted early enough to help slow their spread,” VanderMark says.

Field work with trained invasive pest surveyors will include time in the industrial areas of Massena’s industrial areas, identified as potential “hot spots.”

Contact the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust at 779-8240 for more infomration, or send an e-mail here for registration and details.